490-2948 pig final · 2017-06-16 · in pipes. friction loss—the loss of pressure (force) as...

R E S I D E N T I A L

AutomaticIrrigationSystems

PlanningandInstallationGuide

AutomaticIrrigationSystems

PlanningandInstallationGuide

shrubs &ground cover

lawn area

row of trees& shrubs

flower bed

flower bed

lawn area

flower bed

• Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

• Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

• Designing a System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Sprinkler Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Sprinkler Placement Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10How to Begin Designing Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Three Ways to Locate Sprinklers in Small Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Locating Sprinklers in Odd-shaped Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Completing Sprinkler Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Measuring Your Home’s Water Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Determining Your Design Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Zoning Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Group Your Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Lay Out Your Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Install Your Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

• Installing Your System in 10 Easy Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Step 1: Use Flags to Indicate Sprinkler and Valve Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Step 2: Tap Into Your Service Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Step 3: Main and Lateral Line Trenching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Step 4: Install the Sprinkler System Main Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Step 5: Connect Zone Valves to the Main Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Step 6: Install the Automatic Sprinkler Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Step 7: Install Downstream Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Step 8: Flush the System to Clear Debris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Step 9: Install Your Sprinklers, Zone by Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Step 10: Check System Operation, Zone by Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

• Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Water Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Water Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Recommended Winterization Procedures for Freezing Climates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Before you start

• Check Local Codes and Permits

Call your local water company or the proper municipal authority forinformation on building codes or permits required for the installation ofunderground sprinkler systems. They can also tell you about local codes forbackflow prevention required to protect your water supply fromcontamination, as well as advise on where to locate the backflow device in thesystem. In addition, check with your local utility companies before you dig toidentify any buried cables or natural gas lines.

• Installation Accessory Checklist

During installation, you will need several accessories and a variety of pipefittings. Other materials you may need during installation include:

✓ PVC pipe cutter ✓ 1" pipe clamps (poly only)✓ Screwdriver ✓ Teflon tape✓ Pipe wrenches ✓ Tape measure✓ Hammer ✓ Solvent, primer, rags (PVC only—do not use ✓ Trenching shovel pipe dope on plastic-threaded fittings.)

3

TABLE

OF

CO

NTEN

TSTA

BLEO

FCO

NTEN

TS

T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s Planning & Installation Guide

Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)—a backflow prevention device installedbetween the remote control valve and sprinklers in non-continuous pressureapplications.

Backflow Prevention Device—a device, required by law, on an irrigation systemthat prevents water from re-entering the potable water line once it flows into theirrigation pipes.

Controller—the device that sends timing commands to remote control valves foractuation; same as timer.

Coverage—the pattern of water applied to an area by a sprinkler head.

Designed Operating Pressure—the pressure a designer uses to determinespacing distances and flow for sprinkler heads. The designed operating pressure isdetermined by subtracting estimated friction losses from the static water pressure.

Dynamic Pressure—the pressure reading in a pipeline system withwater flowing.

Evaporation—the change by which any substance is converted from a liquid stateto a vapor.

Flow—the movement of water through the irrigation piping system; causingfriction loss.

FPS—the abbreviation for “feet per second;” refers to the velocity of waterin pipes.

Friction Loss—the loss of pressure (force) as water flows through thepiping system.

GPM—the abbreviation for “gallons per minute” (unit of measure for water flow).

Head-to-head Spacing—refers to the spacing distances of sprinklers when theydo not exceed the radius of the sprinklers.

In-line Valve—the component in the irrigation system that regulates the On/Off ofwater from the main line to the sprinkler heads; activated by the controller; sameas remote control valve.

Lateral—the pipe in an irrigation system located downstream from the remotecontrol valve. Lateral pipes carry water directly to sprinklers.

Main Line—the pipe in an irrigation system that delivers water from the backflowprevention device to the remote control valves. This is usually the largest pipe onthe irrigation system, generally under constant pressure and located upstream fromthe remote control valves.

Manifold—a group of control valves located together in the same area.

Matched Precipitation Rate (MPR)—the uniform delivery of water across eachsquare foot of an irrigated area. Each sprinkler’s coverage provides every blade ofgrass with no more—and no less water than the next. The result is high-precisionapplication.

psi—the abbreviation for “pounds per square inch” (unit of measure forwater pressure).

4

TERM

INO

LOG

YTE

RM

INO

LOG

Y

Planning & Installation Guide T e r m i n o l o g y

PVC Pipe—Poly Vinyl Chloride pipe; the most common pipe used inirrigation systems.

P.O.C.—abbreviation for “point of connection.” This is the location on the irrigationsystem where a tap is made for connection of a backflow prevention device or watermeter.

Potable Water—water used for drinking purposes.

Precipitation Rate (PR)—the rate at which sprinkler heads apply water to a specificarea of coverage, over a given period of time, measured in inches per hour.

Radius—the circular area extending from the center of a circle to the outside curve.

Remote Control Valve—the component in the irrigation system that regulates theOn/Off of water from the main line to the sprinkler heads; activated by the controller;same as in-line valve.

Service Line—the pipe supplying water from the city water main to the water meter.

Shut-off Valve—the component in the irrigation system that allows manual shut-offof water to all components downstream.

Spacing—the distance between sprinklers.

Static Water Pressure—the pressure that exists in a piping system when there is noflow; measured in pounds per square inch (psi).

Station—a group of sprinklers that is controlled by the same remote control valve;same as a zone.

Surge—the build-up of water pressure in a piping system due to certaincharacteristics of pipe, valves and flow.

Supply Manifold—the pipe connected to the remote control valves that supplieswater to the sprinklers.

Timer—the device that sends timing commands to remote control valves foractuation; same as controller.

Velocity—the speed at which water flows through the piping system; measured infeet per second (FPS).

Water Hammer—the impact created by water and air moving through the pipingsystem at high velocities and suddenly stopping.

Water Main—the city water pipe located in the street or right-of-way.

Water Pressure—the force of water that exists in a piping system; measured inpounds per square inch (psi).

Working Pressure—the remaining pressure in an irrigation system when all frictionlosses are subtracted from the static pressure.

Zone—a group of sprinklers that operate together and are controlled by the sameremote control valve.

5

Planning & Installation GuideT e r m i n o l o g y

Notes

Toro Automatic Sprinkler Systems

An automatic sprinkler system gives you the landscape you’ve always wanted. Athicker, greener lawn. Beautiful gardens. It adds beauty and value to your homewhile saving time and water.

How many times have you forgotten to water your lawn, then over watered—only toend up with brown spots and muddy puddles? Like many homeowners, you couldbe using up to 50% more water than your landscape needs, which isn’t good for yourlawn or your pocketbook. The solution isn’t to use more water, but to water moreprecisely. An automatic sprinkler system can give you a healthy, green lawn—andmore free time to enjoy the beautiful results.

An automatic sprinkler system takes the work and worry out of watering your lawn.You can forget about tripping over hoses or sprinklers, fixing leaky faucets andhauling hoses around the yard. While you’re enjoying the ball game, your lawnenjoys the right amount of water, in the right spots, at the right time.

Your Toro system can be hard at work even before the paper carrier is up, whenyour grass receives the most benefit. It adjusts for the different needs of new grass,trees and shrubs. And it can even turn itself off when it rains. So go ahead, take anafternoon nap. Your Toro automatic sprinkler system will take care of your beautifulgreen lawn. Automatically.

Sprinklers installed in a special pattern for completeand even coverage deliver precise coverage withoutgaps or runoff. Toro lawn sprinklers are available inseveral specially engineered designs for residentialapplications. Fixed-spray sprinklers are ideal for smalllawns and concentrated areas like ground cover andshrubs. Multi-stream and multi-range rotary sprinklerscover medium-to-large lawn areas very efficiently.

Valves control water flow to the sprinklers. Torovalves are rigorously tested under extreme pressuresand the worst possible water conditions. They’remade to deliver years of smooth, trouble-freeperformance.

Timers are the brain of your system, telling yoursprinklers what day, what time and exactly howmuch to water. And Toro controllers are as easy toprogram as an alarm clock.

6

INTR

OD

UC

TIO

NIN

TRO

DU

CTI

ON

Planning & Installation Guide I n t r o d u c t i o n

Professional Products Require Professional Installation

The performance of an automatic sprinkler system is only as good as theprofessional who installs it. Choosing a quality contractor ensures long-lasting,efficient operation. A good contractor will also minimize ground disturbanceduring installation.

Look for a licensed professional with an established reputation. Expertise inirrigation planning is critical to the initial design and installation of your system.A solid background in irrigation planning helps you avoid common “do-it-yourself”pitfalls like uneven sprinkler coverage, problems with water pressure and otherhassles. You can also rely on a professional for annual inspections andwinterization, if needed. It’s important that your contractor understand regulationsand code requirements in your area. Look for the following qualities whenchoosing a contractor:

• Years of experience• Licensed• Warranties all projects for defects in materials and workmanship• Solid references

7

Notes

Planning & Installation GuideI n t r o d u c t i o n

Sprinkler Selection

No matter how simple or complex the landscape, Toro has the sprinkler family tocover every angle. The basic sprinkler types include: fixed-spray, multi-stream andmedium-range rotary sprinklers.

Select sprinklers with a greater spray radius for large areas so youcan use fewer sprinklers and valves, which means you also useless pipe with less trenching and fewer timer zones.

570 Series

Fixed-spray Sprinklers

Radius: 0'–17'Flow: 0.05–4.58 GPMRecommended operating pressure: 20–75 psiMaximum operating pressure: 75 psi

Toro 570Z Series fixed-spray sprinklers produce a tight, constant fan of water that’sideal for small lawn, shrub and ground cover areas. Pop-up models pop up abovegrasses and disappear when not in use. Shrub sprays are mounted above foliage towater ground cover and shrubs. More than 120 different interchangeable, includingvariable arc, nozzles to choose from give you maximum flexibility.

Featuring an in-riser pressure regulator and X-Flow™ shut-off device, 570Z PRXmodels are ideal for applications with high or varying operating pressure, includinglong lines and slopes.

Flood Bubblers

Flow: 2 GPM adjustable flow0.25, 0.50 and 1.0 GPM fixed flow

Recommended operating pressure: 20–50 psiMaximum operating pressure: 75 psi

Toro flood bubblers produce a flow of water that soaks the soil, reaching the rootzone. They’re ideal for tree wells, planters and shrubs. Toro flood bubblers areavailable in a variety of flows, in both pop-up and riser-mounted models.

Stream Bubblers

Flow: AdjustableRecommended operating pressure: 20–50 psiMaximum operating pressure: 75 psi

Toro 570 Series stream bubblers are ideal for efficient watering of small flowerbedsand shrub areas. Stream-bubbler nozzles are available in a variety of patterns, in bothpop-up and riser-mounted models.

For detailed performance data, specifications and specifyinginformation, refer to the Toro Irrigation Products Catalog(form no. 490-1809).

8

DES

IGN

ING

A S

YST

EMD

ESIG

NIN

G A

SY

STEM

Planning & Installation Guide D e s i g n i n g a S y s t e m

Multi-stream Sprinklers

300 Series Stream Rotor


340 Series Stream Rotor


XP-300 Series Multi-stream


Toro’s unique gear-driven, multi-stream sprinklers provide effective matchedprecipitation rate (MPR) technology. These sprinklers slowly rotate to ensure properwater coverage on medium-sized lawn and shrub areas.

Medium-range Rotary Sprinklers

Super 600 Series Rotor





Radius: 28'–50'Flow: 0.50–10 GPMRecommended operating pressure: 30–50 psiMaximum operating pressure: 70 psi

V-1550 Series Rotor


Toro rotary sprinklers deliver reliable, gear-driven versatility. They provide smooth,even coverage and are ideal for medium-to-large landscape areas.

9

Notes

Planning & Installation GuideD e s i g n i n g a S y s t e m

Sprinkler Placement Planning

Head-to-head Spacing

For proper coverage, place sprinklers so that the spray from one sprinkler reachesthe next, as shown to the right. For windy areas (winds regularly stronger than 8mph), place sprinklers closer—at 90% of spray radius or more depending on localwind direction and speed.

Determine spacing by sprinkler radius. For example,if you are using Toro 570 Series sprinklers with aradius of 12', place your sprinklers no more than 12'apart; or closer together if you are in a windy area.

How to Begin Designing Your System

The planning worksheet in the center of this guide will help you plan your design.Draw circles to represent sprinklers, as demonstrated on the following pages.When designing your system, we suggest you use the following planning tools:pencil, scratch paper, drawing compass, 50' tape measure, straight edge or ruler,spray paint for marking trenches and a Toro flow & pressure gauge.

If you do not own a flow & pressure gauge, ask your local Torodistributor if they have one that they loan to customers.

1. Draw Your Property From a Bird’s Eye View

Each small square on the planning worksheet should represent one square footof actual property. Using your tape measure, outline and measure your propertyaccurately according to scale, laying out the locations of your home, sidewalks,grass, etc. The drawings on the following pages show a hypothetical example.

• Outline your house, garage and other structures.• Show walks, drives, slabs, patios and surfaces.• Locate and identify trees and major obstacles.• From the outside of your house, measure outward to define your perimeters.• Locate ground cover, grass, flowerbeds and landscaping.• Identify the size and location of the water meter (or pump) and main line.• Re-check your measurements at several different points. Make sure your

drawing accurately indicates the true dimensions.

2. Section Your Yard

Divide your yard into areas according to type of plant material (grass versusshrubs) and sun exposure (shade versus full sun). Create as many largerectangles as you can, saving small and odd-shaped areas for last.

10

Notes


3. Locate Sprinklers in Large, Rectangular Areas First

Locate sprinklers within each area, one area at a time, using sprinklers with agreater radius for larger areas.

Stay within the allowable spacing range (radius) of sprinkler selected, andremember to space them head-to-head. Spacing sprinklers too far apart willproduce dry spots. Always place sprinklers where you’ll avoid spraying theside of your house, walls, fences, etc. Also, minimize spraying onto sidewalks,driveways and streets.

Place half-circle sprinklers on sides and borders; quarter-circle sprinklersin corners; and full-circle sprinklers in the middle.

If you use rotary sprinklers in this large, rectangular area (approximately34' x 34'), only four quarter-circle sprinklers are needed to attain full coverage.

To make sure you have proper head-to-head spacing, use a compass to drawcircles, semi-circles and quarter-circles representing sprinkler coverage, asshown below.

Locating sprinklers is not an exact science. You can locatesprinklers without knowing pressure or the gallons per minute(GPM) flow rate of water. These factors will apply later whenwe divide the system into zones. For now, work on your layoutas described in Step 3 above until you’ve achievedhead-to-head coverage for all areas.

11

Half Circle

Quarter Circle

Full Circle

Notes


4. Locating Sprinklers in Odd-shaped Areas

After locating your sprinklers in large, rectangular areas, you can now placesprinklers in small, non-rectangular areas. Although each site is different,following are some handy guidelines.

1. Choose the area on the perimeter with the smallest radius.2. Place a sprinkler with a small radius at that point.3. Place sprinklers along the border starting from that area.4. Adjust the radius of each sprinkler according to the size and shape of the

area.5. If coverage is incomplete, adjust sprinkler location.

When you have defined and placed all of your sprinklers, use a compass todouble check your layout.

Three Ways to Locate Sprinklers in Small Areas

Triangular Spacing

Areas such as narrow strips borderingyour driveway or sidewalk can bewatered by two offset rows of part-circlesprinklers, as shown here.

Square Spacing

This layout is best suited for well-defined,geometric spaces such as small, square orrectangle-shaped yards, or sites divided bysidewalks and other paved areas.

Special-pattern Spacing

You can use special-pattern sprinklers forend-strip and center-strip watering, asshown in the diagram to the right (notrecommended for turf applications).

Center-strip sprinklers spray in two directions, end-strip sprinklers spray in onedirection only. Both are designed for precise watering of small, rectangular areas.

12

Notes


Completing Your Sprinkler Placement

Rotary sprinklers, with their large radius range, cover this 34' x 34' lawn areausing only four sprinklers, as opposed to needing up to nine smaller-radiusfixed-sprays. That means you use a lot less pipe, accessories and trenching.

570 Series fixed-spray sprinklers with 12' radius nozzles are used in this area.

Multi-stream sprinklers with the #03 nozzle provide the most efficient wateringpattern for this 30' x 60' area. In addition, the multi-stream delivers evenwatering to this home’s backyard slopes.

Stream bubblers next to the house and sidewalks keep spray off of surfaces.They are very effective for small flowerbeds and shrub areas too.

For narrow grass strips, use 570 Series fixed-spray sprinklers with 5' radiusnozzles.

In this area, 570 Series fixed-spray sprinklers with 8' radius nozzles are used.

When designing your system, Toro recommends using anoperating pressure of 30 psi for fixed-spray sprinklers, floodbubblers and stream bubblers. Use 50 psi for multi-stream andmedium-range rotary sprinklers. If your system capacity does notfall within these ranges, refer to the Toro Irrigation ProductsCatalog (form no. 490-1809) for specific operating pressureinformation.

13

Y

XA

A

B

C

D

E

F

B

C

D

EF

Notes


Measuring Your Home’s Water Capacity

Water pressure can vary from home to home, even on the same street, so it’simportant that you take a measurement at your own home. If you push your systembeyond its capacity, it can create water hammer, which will cause costly damage toyour piping system or low pressure, resulting in poor water application. Conversely,sprinklers operating outside of optimum operating pressures can waste water.

Following are two reliable ways to determining your home’s water capacity. Werecommend using the flow & pressure gauge method (no. 1) because it’s fastand easy.

1. Determine Your Water Capacity and Working Pressure Using a ToroFlow & Pressure Gauge

The Toro flow & pressure gauge is a dual-purpose device designed to measurewater pressure up to 160 psi and water flow up to 13 GPM. This flow gauge isnot intended for use on lines larger than one inch. The gauge will only measureflow through the outside faucet or hose bib—not in the line.

a. Ensure that water is not being used in the house.

b. Attach the gauge to an outside faucet nearest to where the main line entersthe house (see Y on diagram, page 13).

c. Make sure the flow gauge is closed by turning the handle clockwise.

d. Open the outside faucet slowly to avoid damage to the gauge.

e. When the outside faucet is fully opened, read the system static pressure(pressure with no water running in the house).

f. Open the flow gauge slowly by turning the handle counter-clockwise. Asthe flow gauge opens, the pressure will drop from the static reading andthe flow reading will rise. Continue to open the flow gauge until thepressure drops to the designed working system pressure.

g. If the pressure does not drop to the working pressure (after opening theflow gauge all the way), take the flow and pressure reading at the full,open position.

If rapid fluctuation occurs on the flow gauge, record the averagereading. Additional reading of pressure and flow may be helpfulto obtain further design information.

14

Notes


2. Determine Your Water Capacity and Working Pressure Using aFive-gallon Bucket and a Standard Pressure Gauge

a. Locate the outside faucet closest to the main line (see Y on diagram,page 13).

b. Locate another faucet on your house and attach a pressure gauge (see Xon page 13). Open faucet all the way.

c. With faucet Y completely open, check the pressure reading on the gaugeat faucet X. If it is less than the working pressure, turn down the waterflow from faucet Y until the reading reaches the working pressure. If itis greater than the working pressure, record the pressure reading and goto step d.

d. Place a five-gallon bucket under faucet Y and time how long it takes tofill it with water. This test tells you how much water is available,measured in gallons per minute (GPM).

Time to Fill a Five-gallon Bucket GPM

15 Seconds 20

20 Seconds 15

25 Seconds 12

30 Seconds 10

40 Seconds 7.5

Double check your GPM using the following formula:

60 seconds ÷ time to fill the bucket x 5 (bucket size) = _____ GPM

This is how much water is available at the designated working pressure or at thehigher reading that you recorded.

The working pressure reading determines how far yoursprinklers will spray.

Once you have completed either 1 or 2, record the psi and GPM on page 16.

Before you go any further, it is important to make sure you are starting off withthe right flow and pressure information. Take a moment to compare your findingswith the Flow Rates Chart on page 16. A few minutes now may save youcountless headaches later!

15

Notes


Determining Your Design Capacity

Enter your answers from page 15 here: psi GPM

Now that you’ve recorded your home’s water capacity, let’s make sure your watermeter and service line can handle it. Complete steps ❶, ❷ and ❸ to determine youractual system design capacity.

❶ Water Meter Size*

______ = ______ Max. GPMSize

* Water meter size is stamped or printed on the face of the meter, or shown on your water bill.

❷ Service Line Type/Size

____________ = ______ Max. GPMType & Size

Flow Rates for Service Lines and Sprinkler LinesMaximum Recommended Flow

Pipe Type Pipe Size Maximum GPM

PVC (Plastic)Consider using 1" Schedule 40 PVC 1" Schedule 40 13pipe upstream of zone valves 3⁄4" Schedule 40 8and at least 3⁄4" Class 200 PVC pipe 1" Class 200 15downstream of zone valves. 3⁄4" Class 200 10

Galvanized 3⁄4" Galvanized Pipe 81" Galvanized Pipe 13

Copper 3⁄4" Copper Tube 61" Copper Tube 12

Polyethylene (Poly Pipe)In freezing areas, poly pipe may be 3⁄4" Poly Pipe 8used downstream of zone valves. 1" Poly Pipe 13

❸ Enter the Lower GPM From Steps ❶ or ❷

______ Max. GPM (this is your design capacity)

Example:

Water Meter Size Service Line Type/Size Enter the Lower GPM

1" = 22 GPM 1" Schedule 40 PVC = 13 GPM 13 GPM = design capacity

Use only 80% of the design capacity to allow for future householdwater consumption demand for domestic purposes (showers, sinks,washing machines, etc.). Using the example above, 80% of 13GPM is approximately 10 GPM. No group of sprinklers or zonesshould exceed this amount.

16

Flow Rates for Water Meters

Meter Size Max. GPM5⁄8" 83⁄4" 131" 22

Notes

Planning & Installation Guide

Zoning Your System

A zone is a group of sprinklers that operate together using a common valve. Yoursystem timer controls zones independently of one another.

The capacity of any zone must not exceed the safe design capacity of your home’swater system (see page 16).

Divide Your System Into Zones

1. Write down the flow capacity (GPM) of each sprinkler on your grid layout.

2. Next, divide similar sprinklers into groups as shown.

3. Add up the sprinkler flow (GPM) for each zone. If the total flow exceedsthe safe design capacity, you must split the zone into more zones or putsome of the sprinklers into another zone with available capacity. Rememberto split zones based on slope, sun or shade.

• Don’t mix sprinkler types within a zone. For example, fixed-spray sprinklers should not be grouped with rotary sprinklers.

• Separate lawn and shrub areas.• Separate shady and sunny areas.

Count Your Zones

Determine the number of valves that you will need, based on the number of zonesyou have designed. In the example above, we will need eight valves because wehave eight zones.

17

The flow of each of the four quarter-circlepattern rotary sprinklers = 1.5 GPM.Multiply 1.5 GPM by four sprinklers. Theflow of this zone is 6 GPM.

Key: Remote Control Valve Timer Sprinkler Head Water Meter


Each small square = one footEach large square = ten feet

Group Your Valves

We recommend grouping the valves. For example, one valve location is needed tooperate front yard zones, and one to operate the backyard and/or side-yard zones.This symbol represents a valve location.

Locate the first set of valves in a convenient spot near the main water connection. Agood location is where the service line enters your house. Also, place valves next towalks or planters for easier access.

In the example above, we show the valve locations. The front location, near thegarage, controls zones 1, 2, 3 and 4. The backyard location controls zones 5, 6, 7and 8.

The number of zones used on your automatic timer should match or exceed thenumber of zones in your system (plan for potential expansion). The ToroGreenkeeper® 212 timer is ideal to use in this case since it expands up to eight zones.

20

The flow of each of the four quarter-circlepattern rotary sprinklers = 1.5 GPM.Multiply 1.5 GPM by four sprinklers. Theflow of this zone is 6 GPM.

Key: Remote Control Valve Timer Sprinkler Head Water Meter


Lay Out Your Pipe

In this system, piping will run:

From the main line to the first set of valves

From the first set of valves to the second set

From the valves to the sprinkler heads (shown only for zone 2)

Under driveway

Draw these connecting pipes on your grid layout (as shown in zone 2) and followthese rules: • Use as many straight runs as possible.

• Try to avoid turns, which result in loss of pressure.• Avoid runs under sidewalks and driveways whenever possible.• Make connections perpendicular to each other.

You can include more than one pipe in a trench.

Consider using 1" Schedule 40 PVC pipe upstream of remotecontrol valves and at least 3⁄4" Class 200 PVC pipe or 1" poly pipedownstream.

Install Your Timer

Install the timer inside your garage or on an outside wall near a 110V outlet. Checklocal electrical codes for connection to outside plugs.

Place zone or valve wires in the same trenches as the pipe. Remember that valveswill be wired to the timer, so locate valve wires where they are easily accessible.

Toro recommends 18-gauge solid, multi-strand, direct-burial wire to connect valves tosprinkler timers. You will need one wire per zone, plus the common wire. Thiseight-zone system requires nine wires. Be sure to waterproof your connections.

21

A correct piping systemwith straight runs. An incorrect piping system

with too many turns in thepipe results in reduced flowand pressure to the lastsprinkler on the line.

Notes


Step 1: Use Flags to Indicate Sprinkler and Valve Locations

Use Toro flags to indicate sprinkler locations according to your design. Use line-marking spray paint to locate the lines along the area where you’ll trench and installpipe. Check your worksheet to make sure you mark the lines accurately. You willbe digging your trenches along these lines (step 3).

Step 2: Tap Into Your Service Line

By cutting into your service line andslipping on a compression tee (seeillustration to the right), you canconnect your sprinkler system to thewater supply without soldering. Youcan avoid cutting the main line byattaching your system to the outsidefaucet connection (see lower right). Inaddition, PVC may be substituted forcopper in non-freezing areas (checklocal codes for backflowrequirements).

If the Meter Is in Your Yard:

1. Shut off your water supply at the meter(check with your water departmentfirst).

2. Dig to expose the service line.

3. Tie into the service line, between thewater meter and the house.

4. Remove a section of pipe, leaving a gaplarge enough to slide on a compressiontee.

5. Slip the tee over each end of the pipe.

6. Tighten the compression nuts. Therubber gasket will compress against thepipe, creating a seal to prevent leakage.

7. Install a close nipple with teflon tape on all threaded connections into the tee.

8. Attach a shut-off valve to this section of pipe. The shut-off valve allows you toturn off the system by hand, if necessary.

9. Keep this connection as clean as possible. This is your tap-water supply.

When sprinklers are running, the layout using an outside faucetconnection may result in noise in your house as the water runsthrough the pipes.

22

INST

ALL

ING

YO

UR S

YST

EMIN

STA

LLIN

G Y

OU

R S

YST

EM

Galvanized or Copper TeeClose nipple

Outsidefaucet

Close nipple

Male adapter

To control valves

Shut-off valve

Houseserviceline

Typical outside faucet connectionusing galvanized/copper pipe andfittings

Slip-typecompression tee

Service line to house(copper, PVC orgalvanized)

Shut-offvalve Close nipple

Male adapters

To control valves

Typical installation using compression tee;PVC pipe and fittings

Watermeter

Valve to turnoff water whilecutting intoexisting pipes

From citywater main

Planning & Installation Guide I n s t a l l i n g Y o u r S y s t e m

If the Meter Is in Your Basement:

1. Shut off your water supply atthe meter (check with yourwater department first).

2. Tap into the service line witha compression tee.

3. Drill a hole through the sillabove the foundation, or drillor chisel a hole in thebasement wall. Make thehole no bigger than needed torun a 1" pipe through it.

4. Install the piping, as shown above. Add a shut-off valve and drain cap. Thedrain cap should be in a low position to allow system drainage.

5. Run your connecting pipe out of the basement through the hole to the outside.Then run it to where the backflow preventer and first set of valves are on yourplanning worksheet (see page 26 for more on backflow prevention).

6. To drain water from the system, close the shut-off valve, place a bucket underthe drain cap and remove the cap.

7. After the connecting pipe is installed, seal the hole in the wall withcaulking compound.

Step 3: Main and Lateral Line Trenching

Trenching by Hand

To soften the soil, water the ground approximately two days before you dig. Digtrenches 8" to 12" deep or below the frost line infreezing climates. Put sod on one side of thetrench and soil on the other.

Trenching With a Trencher

Trenching machines are an easier, faster alternativeto digging with a shovel. They can be rented bythe hour, day or week, usually from a lawn supplystore or rental equipment dealer. The person yourent from can show you how to operate themachine properly and safely. Trenchers shouldnot be used to dig through ground cover,flowerbeds, on steep slopes or near buildings.Be sure to verify all underground utilitiesbefore trenching.

23

To controlvalves.(Slopedownwardfor drainageto basement)

Typical installation using PVC pipeand fittings

Service linefrom street

Service lineto house

Slip typecompressiontee

ElbowClosenipple

PVCpipe

Shut-offvalve

Maleadapter

3⁄4" NPT female

Drain cap

Water meterShut-offvalve

Tee

Soil Sod

Notes

Planning & Installation GuideI n s t a l l i n g Y o u r S y s t e m

Step 3: Main and Lateral Line Trenching (cont.)

Going Under Obstacles

To tunnel under brick and concrete walks,attach a piece of Schedule 40 PVC pipe to ahose with a hose-to-pipe adapter. Cap theend with a PVC cap and drill a 1⁄8" hole inthe end of the cap. Point the end of thepipe to where you want to tunnel. Turn onthe water and push the pipe under theconcrete. The force of water will blast awaythe soil in front of it to form a tunnel.Tunneling requires care to avoid damage towalks and driveways.

Step 4: Install the Sprinkler System Main Line

Attach your sprinkler system main line to the service line. Run it along the bottom ofthe trench from the house to the first set of valves and if required, to the second set.Place your valve wire next to the pipe whenever possible.

Tips on Working With Different Pipes

PVC Pipe

1. Cut pipe with a PVC pipe cutter.

2. Brush on a primer to clean the pipesurface and the inside of the fitting.

3. Brush solvent (cement) on the outsideend of the pipe and lightly inside thefitting.

4. Slip the pipe into the fitting and give ita quarter turn.

5. Hold in place for about 20 seconds sothe solvent can set.

6. Wipe off excess solvent with a rag.

Wait one hour before running water through the system.

24

Notes


Poly Pipe

1. Cut pipe with a PVC pipe cutter or sharpknife.

2. Slip a stainless steel clamp over the endof the pipe.

3. Insert the fitting into the end of the pipe,past the barbs.

4. Slide the clamp over the barbs of the fitting.

5. Tighten the clamp.

To relax poly pipe, expose it to sunlight. Never expose poly pipe toopen flame.

Do not use poly pipe as the connecting pipe between the serviceline and the control valves. Surge pressure may rupture the polypipe.

Step 5: Connect Zone Valves to the Main Line

A group of valves is called a manifold. Use flags to mark the location of the valves,as indicated on your worksheet.

Atmospheric vacuum breakers (AVBs) are always installed above ground. With anAVB, dig out an area large enough to accommodate your inlet and outlet pipes.

In-line valves are installed below ground. Protect valves below ground by shelteringthem in boxes (see diagram on next page). Dig out the area where below-groundvalves are to be installed. Install valve boxes at or near grade level. When you buyboxes, be sure to find out how many valves fit in each box so you can buy thesufficient amount.

25

Notes


Select the Right Valves

EZ-Flo® Plus Series Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) Valve

Above-ground installation with built-in backflow prevention.

250/260 Series Plastic Valve

Below-ground installation requires separate backflow prevention.

Backflow Prevention

Call your water company or the proper municipal authority to find out about anybuilding codes or permits required for the installation of underground sprinklersystems. They can tell you about local codes for backflow prevention to protect yourhousehold water supply from contamination. They can also advise you on where inthe system it should be located (see illustration below for general placement). Inaddition, check with your local utility companies before digging to identify anyburied cables or natural gas lines.

Electric In-line Valve Assembly (1" Valves Shown)

26

Pressure Vacuum Breakershould be installed 12" abovethe highest sprinkler, oraccording to local codes.

1" Schedule40 PVC

1" Schedule40 PVCfromwater source

1" Slip x Slip x Thread Tee

3⁄4" Class200 PVC

ValveBox

1" NPT x 3⁄4" SlipFemale Adapter

Notes


Shut-off Valves

In systems with pressure vacuum breakers (PVBs), the PVB may be used as a shut-offvalve.

In systems where PVBs are not used, we recommend installing a shut-off valvebetween the zone valves and the service line. Check local codes for the type ofshut-off valve recommended.

PVBs should be installed 12" above the highest sprinkler, or according to local codes.

When you install your sprinkler system in the front yard withplans to install the backyard later, run your sprinkler main lineand wire to an accessible location in the backyard and cap it off.Leave extra wire (more strands) to handle more valves as youexpand in the future.

PVC pipe is shown in these illustrations. However, in areaswhere freezing occurs, poly pipe may be used downstream ofvalves instead of PVC. Always check local codes for proper piperecommendations and before installing backflow preventiondevices.

Electric Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker Valve Assembly

27

3⁄4" Class 200 PVC(minimum)

3⁄4" x 1⁄2" Saddle(or 3⁄4" Slip x 1⁄2" NPT Tee)

1" Schedule 40 PVC fromwater source

1" Slip x Slip Tee

3⁄4" Slip x 3⁄4" Male Thread Adapter

1" Slip x 3⁄4" Male Thread Adapter

CommonWire

ValveZoneWires

Timer

24 V a.c.Transformer

To next manifoldPop-upSprinkler

Toro SuperFunny PipeFittings

Toro Super Funny Pipe

Sprinkler lateral line

Splice connections shown with waterproof greasecaps. Ask your distributor for assistance if needed.

Atmospheric VacuumBreakers should beinstalled 6" to 12" abovethe highest sprinkler, oraccording to codes.

3⁄4" Slip x Slip Elbow

Notes


Step 6: Install the Automatic Timer

1. Install the timer in your garage or another convenient place. If an outdoorlocation is desired, plan to use an outdoor cabinet to protect the timer againstthe effects of weather. Make sure an adequate power supply is available. Torotimers require only a standard AC outlet (see instructions included with thetimer for details).

2. Run wires along the trench, underneath the pipe and from the valves to thesystem timer.

3. Take one wire from each valve and connect them to a common wire (for easeof identification, use the white wire as the common). Connect the commonwires of valves that are located together. Connect the common wire to thecommon terminal on the timer (see illustration, page 27).

4. Take the other wire from each valve and connect to the timer terminals insequence.

5. Plug in the timer.

All outdoor connections and splices must be waterproofed.

Select the Right Size Timer

GreenKeeper® 212 Indoor or Outdoor Timer

2, 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 Stations

This is an easy-to-use timer that expands as your landscaping needs grow.

Turf Pro™ Indoor or Outdoor Timer

6, 9 or 12 Stations

Offers an easy-to-use interface with reliableSurgePro™ surge protection.

EZ-Remote™

An option with the Greenkeeper 212 timer, EZ-Remote offers convenient remote capability for easy installation and servicing.

Rain Switch®

Attaches easily to roof eaves or 3⁄4" PVC pipe. Conserves water by interrupting watering during rainfall.

28

Notes


Step 7: Install Downstream Pipe

Start from the valves and move outward, laying the connecting pipe along the bottomof the trench. At each flag, install an appropriate fitting for sprinkler attachment (seepages 24–25 for tips on working with different pipes).

Step 8: Flush the System to Clear Debris

After the pipe has been connected and the glue has dried (PVC pipe only), turn onthe water, open valves one zone at a time and flush until the water runs clear.

Don’t backfill your trenches until your final system operationcheck is complete (see page 30).

Step 9: Install Your Sprinklers, Zone by Zone

Install one sprinkler zone at a time, using Toro Super Funny Pipe®. Remember torefer to your planning worksheet.

1. Placing a sprinkler in a trench as a guide, measure from the connecting pipefitting to the bottom of the sprinkler and cut a length of Super Funny Pipe tofit. Place sprinklers at least 3" from sidewalks, curbs and buildings.

2. Install the appropriate Super Funny Pipe elbow into the sprinkler and into thePVC or poly pipe fitting.

3. Connect one end of Super Funny Pipe to the sprinkler and the other end to theconnecting pipe fitting.

4. Position the sprinkler in the trench so that the top of the sprinkler is flush withground level. Stabilize the sprinkler with soil without filling the entire trench.

5. Verify that the sprinkler is straight for optimum performance.

Toro Super Funny Pipe

One of the most useful and time-saving sprinklerinstallation aids is Toro Super Funny Pipe. Whether youare installing a new system or replacing an old sprinkler,Super Funny Pipe can make your job faster and easier.

What is Super Funny Pipe?

Super Funny Pipe is a high-strength poly tubing that solves tough sprinklerinstallation and replacement problems. Simply put, Super Funny Pipe acts as aflexible extension cord between the sprinkler line and the sprinkler, allowing you toposition sprinklers easily where you need them, even in hard-to-reach areas!

29

Notes


Step 10: Check System Operation, Zone by Zone

1. Slowly turn on the water and manually open the control valve.

2. Adjust the sprinkler to ensure proper coverage (see sprinkler installationinstructions for details).

3. If your coverage is incomplete, follow the steps below:

a. Make sure the control valve and shut-off valve are fully open.

b. Turn off any water being used in the house (washers, showers, faucets,etc.).

c. Fine-tune sprinkler spray patterns to match your coverage area.

d. If coverage is still not complete, go back and check your system layoutagainst the plans.

e. When you see that the coverage is satisfactory, fill in the trench with dirtand cover with sod.

Congratulations!

When properly installed, your Toro automatic sprinkler systemwill help keep your landscape green and healthy for years ofrecreation and enjoyment.

30

✓

Notes


Water Conservation

Your new Toro underground sprinkler system is now installed and ready to wateryour lawn automatically. Following are some tips to conserve water:

✓ Water in the early morning (before sunrise) when water pressure is greatest,evaporation is minimal and the lawn drinks in the most water.

✓ Do not water at night because water will sit on the lawn and may cause disease.

✓ Do not water in the heat of the day because the sun will evaporate water before itcan soak in.

✓ Give lawns more water than plants, placing plants on a separate wateringschedule. Some timers provide multiple watering programs, which allow you toschedule lawns, shrubs and flowerbeds separately.

✓ Reduce run times for zones in the shade.

Water Scheduling

Using the formula and chart below, determine your weekly watering requirementsper zone. Then divide the number of minutes per week into days. For example, ifyou need to water 65 minutes a week, you could water 9–10 minutes daily or 16–17minutes every other day. If you have sandy soil, you can apply your dailyrequirement all at once. With clay soils, you will need to apply water more slowlyand may have to use more daily start times.

Minutes Per Week ÷ Starts Per Week = ___________ Minutes Per Start

Minutes Per Week

Average Daily Fixed-spray Multi-stream Medium-rangeTemperature Sprinklers Sprinklers Rotary Sprinklers

60° and 79° 45 100 120

80° and 99° 65 150 180

100° and 110° 85 200 240

31

WATER

ING

TIPSW

ATERIN

G TIPS

Planning & Installation GuideT i p s

Recommended Winterization Procedures for FreezingClimates

Manual Drain Valves

1. Close the main water supply valve.

2. Open all manual drain valves upstream of the automatic valves to allowdrainage of the main line and valve manifold.

3. Open all manual drain valves downstream of the automatic valves to allowdrainage of the lines.

4. Follow recommended winterizing instructions included with your specificsprinkler timer.

Automatic Drain Valves

If the system is installed with automatic drain valves, the lines downstream of thevalves will drain automatically when the valve closes.

1. Close the main water supply valve.

2. Open all the manual drain valves upstream of the automatic valves to allowdrainage of the main line and valve manifold.

3. Follow recommended winterizing instructions included with your specificsprinkler timer.

Automatic Control Valves

This procedure should be followed if adequate control valve drainage cannot beachieved through the use of manual or automatic drain valves.

1. Close water supply valve.

2. Complete manual drain valve, automatic drain valve and sprinkler timerwinterization procedures.

3. Disassemble the automatic control valve and drain all water.

4. Reassemble the automatic control valve.

32

WIN

TERIZ

ATI

ON

TIP

SW

INTE

RIZ

ATIO

N T

IPS

Planning & Installation Guide T i p s

Winterization with Compressed Air

1. Connect the air compressor (25 CFM or larger with the pressure regulatoradjusted to 30–50 psi) to the fitting downstream of the water supply drive.

2. Activate each automatic valve from the timer, allowing each valve to remainopen until all water has been expelled from the zone.

3. After all valves have been activated and all water has been expelled, disconnectthe air compressor.

4. Turn off the timer.

5. Open all the manual drain valves upstream of the automatic valves to allowdrainage of the main line and valve manifold.

WARNINGTO PREVENT PERSONAL INJURY, DO NOT ATTEMPT TODISASSEMBLE THE SYSTEM WHILE UNDER PRESSURE.

Do not exceed 50 psi of air pressure in any system.Exceeding 50 psi can result in equipment damage.

Refer to the Toro Irrigation System Start-up and WinterizationProcedures Guide for more information.

33

Notes

Planning & Installation GuideT i p s

34


Notes

Form No. 490-2948 AP15M203

The Toro Company • Irrigation Division • An ISO 9000-Certified Company• PO Box 489 • Riverside, CA • 92502 • (800) 664-4740 • www.toro.com©2003 The Toro Company • All Rights Reserved • February 2003

490-2948 pig final · 2017-06-16 · in pipes. friction loss—the loss of pressure (force) as...

Documents